Five Dos and Don'ts When it Comes to Shaving

When it comes to shaving, there are several dos and don'ts out there to ensuring the best shave possible. You want skin that is smooth and hair free, rather than with razor bumps, nicks and cuts. Here are a few tips to help you out.

DO Exfoliate Before Shaving

You do not have to exfoliate before every shaving, as this can be rough on your skin. But you should do so a couple times a month to remove dead skin cells and promote the growth of new ones so you can have soft skin. If you exfoliate after shaving, then the salts in the scrub will irritate your skin, especially if it has nicks and cuts. It will burn and feel unpleasant. However, if you do it before shaving, you are setting yourself up for a smooth shave and even smoother skin afterward.

DON'T Shave Dry but DO Moisturize

This is the number one factor in giving your poor body cuts from the razor blade. The razor drags against the skin when it is dry and can cause irritation such as razor burn. Make sure the skin is wet and you use shaving cream or shaving gel along on the skin. Some razors have a moisturizing strip that will work well with wet skin to prevent nicks. This will also ensure soft, moisturized skin after shaving. Some work so well, such as Skintimate's shaving gels that you will not even have to use lotion after.

DO Invest in a Good Razor

Those cheap $0.99/bag razors are just not worth it. Invest in a good razor. Read reviews about it before purchasing. See what others have thought about that product and if they feel it is a good deal. If you want to save yourself money, find a coupon for it before purchasing. For men, invest in a good electric razor. It is also best to find a manual one that works well for you, such as Gillete, for times such as travel. Women should also invest in a good razor, but there is no need for an electric one. Brands like BIC Soleil and the Venus Embrace are both highly rated.

DON'T Shave Certain Body Parts

The only areas you should shave are your legs and underarms. Areas such as a bikini line, facial hair and any other body hair should not be shaved. The exception to this is men with facial hair, that can be shaved. It can cause razor burn, redness and unsightly growth as the hair grows back. For those other body parts, its best to look at other safer and possibly even more permanent hair removal methods. Such methods may include laser treatment, waxing and others.